Concert tickets can be purchased online at oregonstatefair.org, and by phone at 877-840-0457 up to the day of the performance. Service charges apply, except when purchased with a credit card at the box office, 2330 17th St. N.E., Salem, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Aug. 25 through the end of fair.

It wouldn’t be fair without some wacky competitions. Fairgoers can test their spitting distance in the Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest (Aug. 31) and indulge in the Willamette Valley Fruit Company’s Marion Berry Pie Eating Contest (Aug. 31 and Sept. 1).

There are also plenty of more serious competitions for connoisseurs of baking, brewing and even salad making. Bakers will try for the most delicious chocolate cake in Gerry Frank’s 54th Layered Chocolate Cake Competition (Sept. 1)

New in the Pavilion is Toytopia, a huge, hands-on exhibit featuring games and toys throughout the decades, including a retro arcade, a giant interactive dollhouse and the world’s largest Etch-a-Sketch. Also: brain-stumping puzzles at Puzzlemania, baby chicks at FarWest Hatcheries and entertainment on the Portland Spirit Cinnamon Bear Stage. All free with admission.

New for teens: Live 95.5 Club Energy Teen Zone, featuring a surreal party experience with Headphone Disco, weekend performances by Little Rascalz, Live 95.5 DJs, daily karaoke, glow parties and prizes. This is free from 3-6:30 p.m.; $5 admission after 6:30 p.m. Ages 12-18.

Every day is an opportunity to see different breeds of cattle, sheep, pigs and other large livestock, plus baby animals and poultry. Many Oregon livestock ranchers are at the top of their craft and recognized nationally for excellence.